YOANN ARQUIN is out to show just why he was labelled Notts County’s answer to Nicolas Anelka after an explosive start in England’s League One.

The 25-year-old Martinique striker joined Ross County this week and is fit and ready to face Dundee United today if selected.

The powerful hitman’s time at Notts County began in a blaze of headlines last season but turned sour after the arrival of Shaun Derry as manager this term.

But after heading to the Highlands the bearded Arquin’s self-belief and intent was evident as he prepared for his Ross County debut today.

The 25-year-old – who netted in the League Cup against Liverpool at Anfield last August – is certainly not fazed by the Anelka comparison made by Meadow Lane team-mates.

The French-born hitman said: “Nicolas is from the same country as me so that is perhaps the big reason why the comparison was made.

“But Anelka is a good player and I think I am a good player as well.

Striker Arquin has been compared to Nicolas Anelka (Image: PA Wire)

“Maybe people think I am similar in style to him.

“I have signed here for one year through to next January. I am happy – Ross County is a good club. They have good fans, a good team and a good manager.

“I have already trained here for one week and I can see the players are of a good standard. I think we can stay in the Premiership. That is the objective for the season.

“It was difficult for me at Notts County, not playing and I’m just glad that is behind me now.

“Last season I was the top scorer with nine goals but this season I was training with the reserves.

“I didn’t play for the reserves but was told to train with them.

“I was not happy with the situation at all, but it is finished now. It is very hard when you are not playing and I want to change that at Ross County. I don’t know why my previous manager didn’t want to play me but it is a brand new start here.

“I have come here to play, help the team and to score goals.

“I don’t need to prove anything to anyone, other than the coaches here and my fellow players.

“I am a good player and have belief in my ability to show it in Scotland.”

August’s 4-2 extra-time defeat to a star-studded Liverpool helped showcase Arquin’s potential. Notts County were trailing 2-0 when Arquin’s fine finish and assist took the match to extra-time before 42,000 fans.

The striker is now looking forward to sampling Scotland’s best stadiums – including Celtic Park.

He said: “The Liverpool cup tie was a good game for my experience and it was a real bonus that I scored one goal and provided an assist.

“Liverpool have a lot of big players and they played the likes of Steven Gerrard, Daniel Sturridge, Coutinho and Kolo Toure that day.

“We lost the game, yes, but we were drawing 2-2 at one point and only lost after extra-time. Anfield is an amazing stadium with amazing fans.

“I have only seen Celtic Park on TV but they have great fans as well.

“It will all be part of the experience of playing in Scotland and I’m looking forward to every match.”